The Tegallalang Conundrum

I still remember the first time I visited the Tegallalang rice terraces. It was a hot and humid day in July, and the sun was beating down on us. My friend and I had been warned about the crowds and the commercialization of the area, but we were determined to get some great shots. We spent hours trekking up and down the stairs, taking in the breathtaking views and trying to avoid the throngs of tourists. But as we were leaving, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disappointment. The pictures we had taken, while lovely, just didn’t do justice to the real thing. We had been so focused on capturing the perfect shot that we had forgotten to actually experience the beauty of the terraces.

Fast forward a few years, and I’m still getting asked for advice on how to get the best shots at Tegallalang. And to be honest, it’s not as easy as it looks. With so many people flocking to the area, it’s getting harder to find that perfect spot to capture the essence of the terraces. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. In this post, I’ll share my tips and tricks for getting the best shots at Tegallalang, as well as some of my favorite photo spots.

The Best Photo Spots at Tegallalang

First of all, let’s talk about the most popular spot: the main viewing area. This is where all the tourists go, and it’s easy to see why. The views are stunning, and the sunsets are breathtaking. But if you’re looking for something a bit more unique, there are plenty of other spots to explore. One of my favorites is the spot just below the main viewing area, where you can get a shot of the terraces with the trees in the foreground.

Another spot that’s worth checking out is the Jatiluwih rice fields, which are located just a few kilometers away from Tegallalang. These fields are less crowded than Tegallalang, and offer some of the most stunning views of the rice fields. Plus, you can get some great shots of the local farmers working in the fields.

Finally, if you’re looking for something really unique, try visiting the Tegallalang rice terraces at sunrise. The light is soft and golden, and the crowds are minimal. Just be sure to get there early, as the area can get busy quickly.

Practical Tips

Before we get to the photo spots, here are a few practical tips that will help you get the most out of your visit:

• Get there early: As I mentioned earlier, the crowds can get busy quickly, so try to get to the area early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• Bring a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the sweeping views of the rice terraces.
• Don’t be afraid to get creative: While it’s tempting to stick to the usual tourist spots, don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new. You might be surprised at what you can capture.
• Respect the locals: Remember to respect the local farmers and their land. Avoid trespassing or taking pictures of people without their permission.

What’s Overrated?

While Tegallalang is definitely worth a visit, there are a few things that are overrated. One of these is the overpriced food at the main viewing area. You can get a much better meal at the local warungs (food stalls) just a short walk away. Another thing that’s overrated is the expensive tours that promise to take you to the ‘best’ spots. Trust me, you can get just as good (if not better) shots on your own.

What’s Actually Worth It?

So what is worth it? In my opinion, the best thing about Tegallalang is the sunrise. There’s something magical about watching the sun rise over the rice fields, and it’s a great way to avoid the crowds. Another thing that’s worth it is the local culture. Take the time to talk to the local farmers and learn about their way of life. You might be surprised at how much you can learn.

My Personal Take

Tegallalang is a special place, and it’s definitely worth a visit. But don’t just take my word for it – go and see for yourself. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can capture some truly stunning shots. And remember, the most important thing is to respect the locals and their land. Happy shooting!